September is National Recovery Month, a campaign organized by SAMHSA to “promote the societal benefits of prevention, treatment, and recovery for mental and substance use disorders, celebrate people in recovery, laud the contributions of treatment and service providers, and promote the message that recovery in all its forms is possible.”
Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
These disorders can affect someone regardless of age, race, gender, ethnicity, or income status. Behavioral health conditions are estimated to surpass physical conditions in quantity by 2020. Mental health and substance use disorders are found to be linked with chronic health issues such as diabetes, asthma, and heart conditions. With that in mind, it’s especially important to know the facts and resources in order to prevent and treat those who need help.
Prevention
Knowing the signs and symptoms of a mental health and/or substance use disorder are key to proper prevention and early treatment. Symptoms usually occur before an actual disorder develops, thus offering a valuable window of opportunity. Various symptoms may include change in eating or sleeping habits, social withdrawal, feelings of extreme highs and lows, and unexplained change in personality. Family and friends play a key role in speaking up and offering support when it comes to prevention.
Treatment
The key to effective treatment is encompassing all aspects of an illness: biological, psychological, and social. Depending on the nature of the disorder, different treatment programs may be appropriate. This could include anything from outpatient and residential substance abuse treatment to meditation and yoga. Treatment is proven to work, but it is only effective with the will and want to recover.
While the overall outlook on mental health and substance use disorder recovery is positive, it only works with the right attitude and support system around you. This September, let us all be more aware and informed about this prevalent health issue and work to help those affected to recover fully.
Recovery Celebration Events
Vinland is proud to sponsor the following Recovery Month events in Minneapolis, organized by Minnesota Recovery Connection.
- Rally for Recovery, September 2, Target Field
- Spirituality Breakfast, September 4, Augsburg College
- Walk for Recovery, September 20, Lake of the Isles
Source: Graphics and select text used with permission from recoverymonth.gov.
